Apple has released watchOS 26, and our team at Engadget has been testing its features and performance on a Series 9 Apple Watch. While some updates might seem minor, they collectively improve the overall user experience.
One of the standout features is Liquid Glass, which brings a semi-transparent effect to various interfaces like passwords, notifications, and watch faces. Although not as pervasive as it is on the iPhone, Liquid Glass still adds a touch of elegance to the Apple Watch.
The Workout app has also received significant updates, with the introduction of AI-powered Workout Buddy, which provides personalized motivational messages, customized music playlists, and real-time performance data. We found this feature to be particularly enjoyable during workouts, as it helped us stay engaged and motivated.
Another new feature is the wrist flick gesture, which allows users to quickly dismiss notifications and return to the watch face without having to interact with their other hand. This might seem like a small change, but it’s a significant improvement in terms of usability.
The Messages app has also been updated with improved smart replies, which provide more relevant suggestions when replying to messages. Additionally, users can now set custom backgrounds for their conversations, making them look more visually appealing.
Other notable updates include the addition of the Notes app and improvements to the Smart Stack feature, which provides a more personalized experience on the Apple Watch. The Adaptive sound feature adjusts the volume of notifications based on the environment, making it less distracting.
While watchOS 26 doesn’t introduce any groundbreaking features like iPad OS 26 or macOS 26, the cumulative effect of these updates is positive and worth noting. They show that Apple is committed to refining its wearable device’s experience, even if incremental changes might not be as exciting as more significant overhauls.
Source: https://www.engadget.com/wearables/watchos-26-preview-its-the-little-things-140035949.html